Visas & work permits for foreign founders
Last updated · 2026
The golden rule
Your company registration and your right to stay in China are separate things. Incorporation alone gives you no visa. Plan your stay first, or in parallel with, registration. The good news: 2026 reforms created a nearly complete path — at least in Shanghai.
The K visa (new in 2026)
The K visa is China's 13th ordinary visa class, designed for young STEM talent (science, technology, engineering, mathematics). Its big innovation: it does not require a domestic employer or invitation. Holders can enter China and engage in education, science, technology, culture, entrepreneurship and business activities.
This solves the chicken-and-egg problem for founders: you can enter the country before you have a company, do the setup on the ground, and only then formalize your long-term status.
The work permit & residence permit
Most founders end up on this path:
- Incorporate your OPC/WFOE (your own company becomes the "employer" — this is the self-employment model).
- Apply for the Foreigner's Work Permit with your company as the employer. A one-person company has the legal capacity to sponsor this.
- Convert your visa to a work-based residence permit in China.
Work permits come in three tiers (A / B / C). In Shanghai, founders in priority fields such as AI and biotech may qualify for an A-class permit valid up to 5 years.
Other paths
- Talent programs: R visas (foreign talents) and various municipal talent schemes can provide multi-year residence.
- Family / study / work visas held by founders already in China can be the starting point while the company is set up — check conversion rules with the local exit-entry bureau.
- Greater Bay Area: high-end overseas talent can enjoy a 15% individual income tax rate on eligible income (Shenzhen, Guangzhou and other GBA cities).
Practical checklist
- Confirm your visa category before entering (K visa is not issued everywhere yet).
- Keep your passport valid 6+ months and carry apostilled documents (degree, police certificate) if applying for an A-class permit.
- Register your residence (住宿登记) within 24h of arriving.
- Plan bank opening early — foreign-founder account opening takes longer.